By Leobert Julian A. de la Peña
PBA squad Phoenix Fuel Masters faced a tough situation after suspending its own head coach, Louie Alas, for violating the safety protocols set by commissioner Willie Marcial and the board before practice sessions began.
Through the joint administrative order (JAO) signed by the Department of Health (DOH), Games and Amusement Board (GAB), and the Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF) on Emerging Infectious Diseases, professional sports leagues were given the green light to resume training.
However, the practice sessions should follow the strict safety protocols thoroughly mapped out by Marcial and board head Ricky Vargas and approved by the IATF.
Under their rules, maximum members that should be present in the practice court should only be six: four players, one coach/trainer, and one safety officer.
During Phoenix’s training, Alas violated rules after entering the premises of the court with a different batch of six.
Also, the veteran coach entered the court while it was undergoing decontamination which is also strictly prohibited by the IATF.
Alas’ series of violations netted him a 15-day suspension which prohibited him from entering their training sessions until his suspension is lifted.
“I’m sad because I will wait 15 more days after waiting for almost 6 months. I’m positive because I know the protocols will work since the implementation of the PBA and IATF protocols is strict,” Alas said.
